The 2025 FCS season is here, and with it comes the chaos of opening weekend. On the latest episode of The FCS Edge Podcast, co-hosts Craig Haley and Zach McKinnell break down their FCS Week 1 picks, highlighting the most intriguing matchups and offering insights into which teams are ready to make an early statement.
From nationally ranked showdowns to coaching debuts, here’s a look at the biggest storylines and expert picks from the FCS Edge Week 1 Pick’em segment.
Stats Perform FCS Game of the Week: No. 25 Richmond at No. 14 Lehigh
Why it matters: Richmond’s opening Patriot League game comes against defending champion Lehigh, a rematch of last season’s playoff clash (won by Lehigh 20–16). Craig & Zach’s prediction: Both pick Lehigh, pointing to the Mountain Hawks’ top-10 defense and strong returning core, including preseason All-American Matt Spatny. Key Quote: “Lehigh might be the deepest team in the FCS this year as far as significant returnees,” said Craig.No. 15 Sacramento State at No. 3 South Dakota State
The storyline: Sac State is virtually unrecognizable with a host of newcomers under new coach Brennan Marion and his “Go-Go” offense. Meanwhile, the Jackrabbits start fresh under head coach Dan Jackson but still boast arguably the best offensive line in the FCS. Key matchup: Can SDSU’s defensive front handle Sac State’s misdirection-heavy scheme? Prediction: Both like South Dakota State, which carries a 29-game home winning streak, but see this as a fascinating early test.Michael Vick’s Head Coaching Debut: Norfolk State vs. Towson
The Michael Vick Era Begins: Former NFL legend Michael Vick makes his college head coaching debut with Norfolk State. What’s at Stake: Can Norfolk immediately raise the MEAC’s competitiveness, or will Towson — a team with playoff aspirations — spoil the debut? Prediction: Both lean Towson, but agree that if Norfolk is competitive, it signals a big step forward for the MEAC.North Carolina Central vs. New Hampshire
A Battle of the Durhams: Two years ago, NCCU stunned UNH on the road. Now they meet again. Craig & Zach’s Pick: Both chose North Carolina Central, with Zach predicting a double-digit win.Furman vs. William & Mary
The split decision: Craig: William & Mary, calling the Tribe an overlooked CAA contender with depth at key positions. Zach: Furman, trusting its experience, transfer additions and veteran coaching staff.Other FCS Week 1 Picks
Eastern Washington at UIW: Both expect Incarnate Word to rebound, but caution that the offense must show life against a weak EWU defense.
Idaho State at Southern Utah: Both lean Southern Utah, calling this a potential early playoff-resume game.
Why Week 1 Will Be Chaos
As Zach put it: “The first four weeks of the season are such a learning experience. We’ll be right about some teams — and dead wrong about others. That’s what makes it fun.”
Craig added that with Thursday, Friday, and Saturday action across the FCS, fans should brace for “upsets, surprises, and teams emerging out of nowhere.”
Elsewhere in the Show
Stan Becton from NCAA.com joins “The FCS Edge” to look forward to the new season. Craig and Zach reflect on the Week 0 matchups. And where can the FCS look to shock FBS opponents in the coming weeks?Stay Connected for Weekly FCS Coverage
Throughout the 2025 season, The FCS Edge will bring viewers and listeners:
FCS Top 25 rankings updates Conference race analysis Playoff contender tracking Player spotlight features Subscribe to watch The FCS Edge on YouTube Subscribe to watch or listen to The FCS Edge on Spotify Subscribe to listen to The FCS Edge on Apple Podcasts, Amazon MusicWhether you’re following the FCS playoff race or keeping tabs on your team, The FCS Edge is your go-to source for analysis, rankings and storylines throughout 2025.
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